Vilasini really hated when strangers came into Neued sometimes.

At least those who always wanted to try to blend in with the crowds and steal things. The girl was so accustomed to all of the locals, her experience in the markets bringing her closer to a lot of the merchants and friendlier neighbors, but strangers were always full of surprises. Not that she minded surprise because honestly Sini loved them whenever they were fun and not harmful. She was also very open with others usually too and never hesitated to introduce herself to anyone who crossed her path. So as long as no one meant her harm she would never harm them either. Such things did not apply to thieves unfortunately which were becoming quite a problem on busier market days when there were a bunch of travelers in Neued. Thankfully though she was with Rek today and when the boy brushed past her, his fingers reaching to take her money purse the girl immediately noticed. “He-hey!” Sini called out angrily and darted forward but before she could even do anything the larger shifter man had bolted after the scraggly Oban.

“Rek!” Her gaze widened as she realized that she was less worried about her few coins and more about potential murder happening in the market today. “It’s okay, really!” Oh, no no no. Sini pushed herself forward, her gaze sweeping over some of the lower canopies of the ground level shops and without hesitation the girl flung herself forward so that she could swing from ropes and race across the heavier canvas that protected the outdoor stalls from the frequent rains in Jahaur. Eventually she cut across and found the cornered thief with Rek hovering dangerously close, his sword gleaming in the flecks of sunlight that broke through the heavy foliage. Sini found herself letting out a breath of relief when she realized that there was no blood on the blade and that the boy was thankfully still in one piece. “Can you just hand over my purse, please?” She asked while holding out her hand towards the boy who slowly handed over the prized parcel. Apparently it was a lot easier negotiating with someone when Rek was nearby rather than her trying to get her belongings back on her own. The very though made Sini purse her lips before she walked forward and gave Rek a gentle nudge with her hip. “He handed it over so….no harm?”

“Uh huh.” Rek shot the boy a glare and didn’t budge. “We’ll report him to the local authorities at least.”

“I suppose that’s fair.” Sini let out a sigh. “Though doesn’t Malyne need more help at his stall?” She frowned and studied the scraggly boy. “If you’re that hungry instead of stealing maybe you could work some small jobs in the markets. There’s merchants who also pick up extra hands during the busier seasons if you don’t mind traveling.”

“Sini.” Rek let out a low warning noise but already the hybrid girl was helping the boy up. “He tried to steal your money. Why would you trust him to help anyone?”

“Because desperation makes people do crazy things, Rek.” Sini explained as she glanced over the boy. “What about it? If you actually show honest intentions I’m sure Malyne will give you a place to sleep and food for while you work with him. The last apprentice moved back home earlier this season and so he has been in need of help ever since.”

“That...would be nice.” The boy finally murmured as he eyed Rek warily. “Is it truly okay if I go to help them?”

“Yes.” Sini let out a chuckle and ruffled the younger boy’s hair. “Just stay honest and don’t try nabbing things, okay? Or this guy will find you. I hear he’s very scary when he’s angry, especially when it comes to thieves.”

The boy swallowed and nodded. “Noted.”

“Good.” Sini glanced between the pair with a smile. “Let’s go introduce you to Malyne then. Your name?”

“Yir.” Offered the Oban boy quietly as he slowly walked towards Sini, hesitating when he walked past Rek who glared at him. Sini only gave Rek a gentle pat on his arm before leading the boy to Malyne. At least this time they didn’t have to fight. That was a relief. She just hoped the boy would actually keep to his word and not run away in the middle of the night. Though after seeing how panicked he was when Rek looked his way she was pretty certain he would behave for the most part, if he was smart enough.

[772]